Freeze Out 2014 temperatures mild, annual HSDC event generated $2,910

By Lenny C. Lepola newsguy@ee.net

March 5, 2014

It wasn’t nearly as cold as some past years, in fact the weather was rather mild outside, but onSaturday (February 22) evening a few dedicated Humane Society of Delaware County volunteers braved the above freezing temperatures to show their support for animals suffering in the cold during Freeze Out 2014.

All proceeds from the annual chilly fundraising event go directly to the Humane Services Fund to provide houses, warm bedding, food and medical care to animals in need. The fund also assists with the costs of operating cruelty investigations and humane outreach programs.

“It’s important to remind everyone while we’re in our homes with the heat turned up and fireplaces burning that there are animals outside in the bitter cold winter weather we’ve experienced this year,” said HSDC marketing and humane services manager Misty Bay. “We hold this event each year to bring awareness to all pets living outside.”

Bay said Freeze Out attendees were invited to experience what it’s like to be chained to a doghouse, so they could better understand how it feels to live in the radius of a 6-foot chain.

Bay also noted that even though attendance was down during Freeze Out 2014, donations were up over the past several years. As of Sunday, with late donations totaled in, Freeze Out 2014 generated $2,910 for the Humane Services Fund.

“We thank everyone who stepped forward and donated to continue our outreach services,” Bay said. “This has been a miserable winter. Donations made to the Humane Services Fund allows our humane agents to run emergency wellness checks during bad weather.”

Bay also noted that Delaware Area Career Center’s North Campus construction students have been building dog houses for HSDC for the past several years.

“The Humane Society has dog and cat houses available right now if anyone needs one,” Bay said. “Houses are delivered free to animals in need that are being helped through the Humane Services Fund; and pet owners may also make a donation to purchase one of the houses at the shelter.”

Bay said while Freeze Out 2014 has come and gone, HSDC is still accepting donations of outdoor dog or cat houses, and monetary donations to the Humane Services Fund made in honor of Freeze Out.

If you were unable to participate in Freeze Out but would like to make a belated donation, you may either mail in a donation to the shelter at HSDC, 4920 Ohio 37 East, Delaware, Ohio 43015, or submit a pledge online.

Bay said HSDC’s website lists other designated missions that donors can contribute to.

“Just log on to our website and you can donate to a special cause that appeals to you,” she said.

Bay also noted that HSDC is funded by donations only; it is not supported by Delaware County. It provides a safe haven for abandoned animals awaiting adoption, a medical facility for animals under the society’s care, and a host of other services.

Want to become personally involved. Bay said HSDC has about 130 active volunteers, and more are always needed.

The Humane Society of Delaware County is located at 4920 Ohio 37 East, Delaware. Additional information about donating, volunteering, or HSDC shelter hours can be found online at < hsdcohio.org/ >.